Taking in nature's beauty

London's nickname is "The Forest City" -- and it's very aptly named. There's a historic homestead located nearby where I live. A friend of mine took me there for a walk. It was very serene and ... beautiful. I hope to capture some of this hidden gem and post it on my flickr site.

A few days ago, I was coming back from running errands. I walked along one of the bridges nearby the Thames River when I spotted a young deer taking a cool drink and eating some tree leaves. I stopped and stared at the deer, amazed at how close it was. Later, on my way to campus (for class), I saw a chipmunk! Very cute. Wish I had a camera there and then to capture it. I've never seen a live chipmunk in London (lots of squirrels and groundhogs, though).

Thankfully the past few days have cooled off a bit ... it was roasting last week (including humidex). It's not even officially summer, yet ...

Moments that make you *cringe*

Ever have those "cringe" moments?

While working on papers this morning, I tuned into "This American Life" - one of my favourite radio documentary shows (which is based out of Chicago).

Last week's theme was the "cringe" moments. You know, when you say something that makes you wince or wish you didn't say it. Basically, foot-in-the-mouth syndrome. When you wish you could turn back time and take back what you said.

Anyhow, it was quite an indepth discourse about this theme. It seems females *love* to revel in such "cringe" stories - especially when it comes to love stories because they can help in the bonding process. As the reporter put it ... "it's almost like a one-upmanship with women. oh you did that for love? Well, i did this. It seems it's not the fact that we females get involved with ridiculous relationships, that the fact that we want to have these relationships. Crazy.

There's also a documentary about the "cringe" factor and how that makes us connect with the characters on reality television. I believe that has some truth. Mind you, some of this cringe factor is manufactured (put a republican woman with a gay
roommate ... and wait for the "cringe" moment). Actually this example just mentioned is the anticipated "cringe" moment ... when you know something will likely happen. Reality television depends on this premise to create even more drama.

"Cringe" moments are opportunities to learn what not to say. On that note, I've had many of these moments ... too numerous to mention ... which could mean I'm learning lots, or not learning from my mistakes.

Happy Birthday Dad!

Thanks for being a great dad, in addition to ...

* patient driving instructor
* math tutor
* listening ear
* financial supporter
* fellow movie buff
* innovative problem solver

I love you!